The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has intensified its nationwide crackdown on fake and substandard medicines, resulting in the sealing of over 11,000 shops and the arrest of 40 individuals.
NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, announced the agency's significant enforcement actions in Lagos on Saturday, highlighting that the operations were strategically planned over a year through covert investigations.
The agency launched its enforcement operations on February 10, targeting key drug markets across the country, including Idumota in Lagos, Ariaria in Aba, and Bridge Market in Onitsha. These markets are known to account for over 80% of drug distribution in Nigeria, making them crucial focal points in the fight against falsified and unregistered medicines.
Prof. Adeyeye revealed that NAFDAC has seized substantial quantities of substandard drugs during the operations. Over 20 trucks of illicit medicines were confiscated in Aba, 30 trucks in Onitsha, and 27 trucks in the Idumota market.
NAFDAC's ongoing crackdown on fake and substandard medicines is a critical step towards ensuring the safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products in Nigeria. The agency's commitment to protecting public health through rigorous enforcement and public awareness campaigns is crucial in combating the illicit drug trade and safeguarding the well-being of Nigerians.
Prof. Adeyeye provided further details on the agency's ongoing crackdown, revealing that NAFDAC is nearing the completion of its operations in Aba, having nearly finished the evacuation of substandard products. The next phase will involve a meticulous inspection of each shop to verify their registration status with the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN).
She emphasized the scale of the operation, stating that 4,000 shops have been shut down in Onitsha, 3,027 in Lagos, and another 4,000 in Aba. However, Prof. Adeyeye acknowledged that the operation in Onitsha is only 20% complete, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach. This includes identifying legitimate traders who may not be registered with the PCN, underscoring the complexity of the task.
Prof. Adeyeye reiterated NAFDAC's unwavering commitment to combating counterfeit and falsified medicines throughout Nigeria, emphasizing that the agency will continue its mission to safeguard public health.
The agency's comprehensive approach, coupled with the vital support from the NSA, demonstrates a determined effort to address the serious threat posed by fake and substandard medicines in the country.
Post a Comment